Three break-ins on one day as thieves strike

Councillor Carla Lockhart who led a delegation to meet with police chief David Moore

Published:16:38Thursday 21 January 2016

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DUP councillors have met with PSNI Superintendent David Moore to discuss a perceived upsurge in burglaries in Banbridge.

Just this weekend, three break-ins were reported in the Castlewellan Road area alone.

Councillor Carla Lockhart, who led the DUP delegation, said, “In the past month we have had a number of complaints from residents, particularly in the Castlewellan Road area, about an increase in burglaries. I have been worried by this spate of burglaries and led a delegation to meet with the PSNI on the matter.

“We sought assurances from the PSNI concerning resources, and visibility on the ground in the ‘hot-spot’ areas.

“It is vital that people work together to report suspicious activity, to keep an eye on your neighbours’ property and work towards the setting up of Neighbourhood Watch Zones.

“I, with the councillors, will be out on the ground with residents and will be continuing to press for the PSNI to be out on the beat.”

Superintendent Moore, meanwhile, said: “One burglary is one too many and we are working to prevent and deter crime.

“Burglary across Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon District has decreased in this financial year by 91 incidents. However that is of little comfort to anyone who has been unfortunate enough to be a victim of burglary.

“We conduct daily patrols in Banbridge and officers who have specific responsibility for the area are working with partner agencies and local communities to increase awareness of crime prevention measures and help the public to make their homes and property secure.